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Guide to Architecture in Germany


Germany, with its rich history, has a rich architectural heritage over the centuries. From majestic Gothic cathedrals to innovative modernist structures, German architecture is a testament to the evolution of the country’s culture, society, and technology. This text aims to guide the reader on a journey through the various phases of German architecture, highlighting the predominant styles and emblematic buildings of each era. We invite you to dive into this fascinating exploration and appreciate the diversity and richness of Germany’s contribution to the world of architecture.

Roman Influence (1st Century AD – 5th Century AD):

During its ancient history, Germany was an integral part of the vast Roman Empire, particularly in the regions west of the Rhine River. As a result, rich Roman architecture can be found in Germany, revealing the extent of Roman influence and their ambition to expand and consolidate their territories. During the Roman occupation, significant architectural advancements occurred in the form of temples, baths, and Roman villas. The remnants of Roman structures, such as the Porta Nigra in Trier, remain as a testament to this period. The cornerstone of the Porta Nigra was laid in 170 AD, and today, about 1850 years later, the ‘Black Gate’ is the most well-preserved Roman gate north of the Alps.

One of the most significant architectural remnants from the Roman era in Germany is the Limes Romanus. This border system, stretching over 550 km, consisted of walls, ditches, forts, and watchtowers built to defend the Roman provinces of Germania Superior and Germania Inferior from the Germanic tribes. Much of this frontier is preserved and can still be visited today.

Romanesque Medieval Architecture (11th Century – 12th Century):

Romanesque architecture in Germany, flourishing roughly between the 11th and 13th centuries, is part of the medieval period’s architectural heritage. It marks the transition from Carolingian and pre-Romanesque to Gothic architecture, characterized by massive forms, round-arch vaults, and extensive use of sturdy columns and pillars. The key features are robustness, with thick walls, small openings, and massive structures, often giving them a fortified appearance, barrel vaults – a round arch extended over a space – and minimal ornamentation. A notable example is the Speyer Cathedral (Speyer Dom). The cathedral was founded by Conrad II in 1030 with the ambition to construct the largest church in the West. Over the years, the cathedral underwent various phases of construction, expansions, and renovations.

The Cathedral is distinguished by its grand dimensions and its crypt, which is one of the largest and best-preserved of its kind. The cathedral features four towers and two domes, elements that are part of the typical design of Romanesque imperial churches in Germany. Furthermore, several German emperors and kings are buried in the cathedral, including Conrad II, the founder of the church, and his wife Gisela, as well as Rudolf of Germany, among others. In 1981, Speyer Cathedral was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List and is described as a “masterpiece of Romanesque architecture” that influenced the development of later Gothic architecture.

Gothic Architecture (12th Century – 16th Century):

During the Middle Ages, the Gothic style prevailed in the German architectural landscape. Characterized by tall towers, pointed arches, and intricate details, buildings from this period are truly majestic. An example is the Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), which took over 600 years to build. The Cologne Cathedral is one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its two towering spires, it dominates the Cologne skyline and is a must-visit.

A highlight for Aachen Cathedral

The Aachen Cathedral, also known as Aachen Dom in German, is one of the oldest cathedrals in Europe and holds a special place in German history and culture. Located in the city of Aachen, this architectural masterpiece has a number of distinctions and notable features. The construction of the cathedral was initiated by Emperor Charlemagne in the late 8th century. After his death in 814, Charlemagne was buried on the site, and the cathedral became the final resting place for his remains. For many centuries, Aachen Cathedral was the coronation site for kings and emperors of the Holy Roman Empire.


The building is a blend of architectural styles, reflecting the various phases of construction and renovation over the centuries. The oldest part is the Palatine Chapel, an excellent example of Carolingian architecture and considered the core of the cathedral.

The octagonal shape of the Palatine Chapel, as well as the mosaics that adorn its interior, were heavily influenced by Byzantine art and architecture. Over time, Gothic, Baroque, and other styles were added to the cathedral. In 1978, Aachen Cathedral was one of the first 12 properties to be listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. This recognition highlights its cultural, historical, and architectural significance, not only for Germany but for all of humanity.

Renaissance and Baroque Architecture (16th Century – 18th Century):

The Renaissance

The movement that originated in Italy in the 15th century profoundly influenced German architecture, introducing classical elements and symmetry into constructions. An example of this architecture is Heidelberg Castle, located in Heidelberg. For more information about this castle click here.

The baroque

The Baroque emerged as a sumptuous and decorative artistic expression, with an emphasis on grandeur and drama. In Germany, this form of architecture was manifested in churches, palaces, and urban buildings. The Würzburg Residence, located in Würzburg, Bavaria, is one of the most impressive Baroque palaces in Europe and a masterpiece of southern German architectural style. Due to its historical, cultural, and architectural significance, it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1981. The palace was built between 1720 and 1744, commissioned by Prince-Bishop Johann Philipp Franz von Schönborn and his brother Friedrich Carl von Schönborn. It was primarily designed by Balthasar Neumann, one of the most celebrated Baroque architects in Germany.

Würzburg Palace and its garden in Germany, Baroque architecture.
Würzburg palace

19th Century Neoclassical and Revival Styles (18th Century – 19th Century):

The 19th century in Germany was a period of reflection and renewal in architecture. The interest in past styles, such as Neoclassicism and Rococo, showed the country’s desire to connect with its cultural roots while adapting to a new era. These “revival” styles, therefore, are a testament to its ongoing innovation in architecture.

The Neoclassical Style

It emerged in the second half of the 18th century and lasted until the early 19th century. Inspired by the art and architecture of ancient Greece and Rome, the Neoclassical movement in Germany was marked by an aesthetic of simplicity, symmetry, and grandeur. The Brandenburg Gate, located in Berlin, is one of the examples of German Neoclassicism. Furthermore, the Brandenburg Gate is more than just a historical landmark; it is a symbol of reunification and the historical upheavals that Germany has undergone over the centuries.

Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany, Neoclassical architecture.
Brandenburg gate

Built between 1788 and 1791, the Brandenburg Gate was commissioned by Prussian King Frederick William II and designed by architect Carl Gotthard Langhans. The design is inspired by the Propylaea, the gateway to the Acropolis of Athens, reflecting the Neoclassical spirit of the time. The gate is adorned with twelve Doric columns, forming five passageways. The sculpture on top, which was added in 1794, represents the goddess of victory riding in a chariot pulled by four horses.

The Rococo Style

Originally popular in the 18th century, it experienced a revival in the 19th century. Known for its opulent decoration, elegant curves, and pastel colors, Rococo maintained the charm of the original, but with a 19th-century sensibility. Linderhof Palace is a beautiful example of Rococo and was the only one of King Ludwig II’s three castles (the others being Neuschwanstein and Herrenchiemsee) to be fully completed.

Influenced by the Rococo style, especially by the Palace of Versailles in France, Linderhof Castle is a 19th-century architectural masterpiece. However, unlike the Palace of Versailles, which served as a residence for an entire royal court, Linderhof was designed as a retreat for a single inhabitant – King Ludwig II. This is reflected in its intimate yet luxurious interiors.

Modernist Architecture

Germany played a key role in the evolution of modernist architecture during the 20th century. This movement, characterized by its emphasis on functionality, simplicity, and rejection of excessive ornamentation, was driven by a range of social, technological, and political factors in Germany. The Bauhaus School was central to German modernism. Founded in 1919 by Walter Gropius in Weimar, the Bauhaus had an interdisciplinary focus, merging art, craftsmanship, and technology. Among its basic principles were the idea that form should follow function and that art and architecture should serve the needs of society. The school had a huge influence on modern design and architecture, with notable examples including the Bauhaus building in Dessau and the Haus am Horn in Weimar.

Bauhaus building in Dessau, Bauhaus architecture in Germany. English guide in Germany.
Bauhaus Building

Nazi Period and Post-War (1933 – 1945 and Post-1945):

The rise of Nazism and the post-World War II period were times of profound transformations in Germany, and this was also reflected in the country’s architecture. After all, during these decades, architecture became a political and ideological tool, representing distinct visions for the nation’s future.

Nazi Architecture (1933-1945)

With Adolf Hitler’s rise to power in 1933, architecture in Germany underwent a profound ideological reorientation. The Nazi regime saw architecture as a means to express its vision for the Third Reich. Nazi architecture was grandiose, monumental, and intended to demonstrate the power and eternity of the regime. Simple, massive, and classical forms predominated, often inspired by Greco-Roman architecture.

An example is the Berlin Olympic Stadium, renovated for the 1936 Olympic Games, which exemplifies the gigantism and monumentality that the regime desired. The Olympiastadion is a classic example of monumental Nazi architecture, inspired by Greco-Roman forms. The stadium could accommodate more than 100,000 spectators, making it one of the largest stadiums of its time. The main entrance is marked by the “Marathon Tower,” which remains a prominent feature of the stadium today.

English guide in Germany. Berlin Olympic Stadium, Nazi architecture, in Germany.
Berlin Olympic Stadium

Post-War Architecture (1945 onwards)

World War II left German cities deeply destroyed. Reconstruction was a necessity, but also an opportunity to reflect on national identity and the values of the new Germany.

  • East German Architecture (DDR): Amid the Cold War, East Germany, under Soviet influence, adopted a functionalist architecture, often characterized by large-scale prefabricated buildings (Plattenbau). The Palace of the Republic in Berlin, which served as the parliament, is an example from this era.
  • West German Architecture (BRD): In contrast, West Germany saw a variety of styles emerge. The reconstruction of old cities, like Frankfurt, adopted a more modern approach, while other cities, like Munich, chose to restore historic buildings destroyed by the war.


Contemporary Architecture (Late 20th Century – Present):

Contemporary architecture in Germany is a fusion of tradition, innovation, and a response to the country’s urban and sociopolitical environment. Since the reunification of Germany in 1990, architects have been seeking ways to integrate the past and present, creating buildings and spaces that resonate with both German history and modern challenges. Key features in contemporary architecture include the pursuit of sustainability, integration with the past, and functionality.

Notable Examples:

Allianz Arena in Munich: Designed by the renowned architects Herzog & de Meuron, this football stadium is known for its inflatable illuminated facade, which can change color.

English guide in Germany. Allianz Arena football stadium in Munich, Germany.
Allianz Arena in Munich

Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart: This museum, designed by UNStudio, is a fusion of function and form, with an internal spiral guiding visitors through the history of the brand.

Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart in Germany. English guide in Germany
Mercedes-Benz Museum

Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg: Designed by Herzog & de Meuron, an impressive concert hall with contemporary design.

Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg in Germany. English guide in Germany
Elbphilharmonie

Here we’ve presented a brief history of architecture in Germany. To help you make the most of your trip, gain more knowledge, and have an itinerary tailored to your interests, please contact us. At Majestic Germany, we provide consultancy, planned itineraries, and other assistance for your trip, including transfers, guides, and advisory services.

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